Introducing Jessica Caolo — Joyce’s Final Career Tip of the Week

I would like you to meet the newest member of the Fulton Schools Career Center’s staff: Jessica Caolo. She will be taking over undergraduate career development, first-year student career programs, hiring, training and supervising undergraduate peer career coaches and writing Career Tips.

Jessica brings 15 years of career services experience, gained from working at several universities. She earned her doctorate in counselor education and supervision, with a research emphasis in career development, from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. She also has master’s and EdS degrees in career counseling from Florida State University.

Jessica and I have been working together over the last several weeks. I would like to share some of our conversations with you.

Joyce: What do you enjoy most about the work that you do?
Jessica: Developing student leaders who will become better professionals.

Joyce: How do you hope to accomplish that in this position?
Jessica: In addition to helping students find jobs with the right “career fit,” I encourage them to have a strong knowledge base so that others will look up to them. It is also important that they learn to empower others.

Joyce: Since you recently relocated to Arizona, what have you found that is different or surprising?
Jessica: It’s sunny every day! And… I love that!

Joyce: What have you discovered about the Fulton Schools?
Jessica: I’ve been impressed with the way the staff, faculty and students work together. I’ve experienced Rapid Résumé Reviews, Career Fairs, On Campus Recruiting, the GIT Panel and Mixer and Career Exploration Nights. I’ve also discovered that the Career Center team is like a family — close-knit and caring.

Joyce: What have you noticed about the Fulton Schools students?
Jessica: They are smart, capable and inspiring!

Joyce: What do you like to do outside of work?
Jessica: I’ve played tennis all my life and I will continue to be an avid tennis player. I also enjoy road trips, hiking and exploring the restaurants, arts and cultural scene of Phoenix.

And now about me…

At a career development conference that I attended this summer, a leader in our field cautioned the audience about using the word “retirement.” Apparently, that word can give the impression that someone is no longer capable and useful. Therefore, let me say that I will be starting a new chapter on my life journey. I am excited to replace the time spent at a full-time job (plus commuting) with activities of my own choosing and scheduling.

As I look back on the 23 years that I worked at ASU (12 in Business and 11 in Engineering), I am thankful for the many opportunities I’ve had to work with capable and dedicated colleagues who have become cherished friends. I have also had the privilege of being able to guide, as well as learn from, many talented and amazing students. Thank you to all of you — for being who you are. Finally, a special farewell and thank you to all who have been reading my weekly blogs.

 

Joyce Donahue is a Certified Career Counselor in the Fulton Schools Career Center.